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The Upper Level Writing Requirement (ULWR): The Upper Level Writing Requirement

This guide explains the purpose of the Upper Level Writing Requirement (ULWR), breaks down the processes for researching for the ULWR), and provides some tips and resources.

Goals of the ULWR

The goals of the Upper Level Writing Requirement are:

  • “To reinforce, expand and amplify the skills learned by students’ in the three mandatory Legal Analysis Research and Writing Courses[;]
  • "To develop the techniques of in-depth analysis, synthesis and organization of a body of material[;]
  • "To develop the ability to analyze multiple sources[; and,]
  • "To require students to produce original and rigorous written works.”

Manual of Policies and Procedures of Capital University Law School § 4.11.1 [hereinafter MPP].

How to Satisfy the ULWR

Write a note, comment, or article for Law Review.

Write a paper for a Seminar or other approved class for which a major research and writing project is required.

Write for an Independent Study project approved by the Associate Dean.

See MPP § 4.11.02.C

ULWR's Place in the Law School Writing Progression

First Experience: Predictive Writing (Memo): Your work is trying to predict what outcome to expect.

Second Experience: Persuasive Writing (Brief): Your work involves picking a side and making an argument.

Third Experience: Scholarly Writing (Paper):

Your work requires a synthesis of the first two in order to critically develop and ethically support your unique position

Generally, it also requires a synthesis of information from multiple sources of law, theory, philosophy, empirical data, and/or opinion.

Hence, the need for Research

What Are the Requirements?

Publishable Quality

Relies on Multiple Sources (depending on the project and subject, perhaps multiple types of sources also)

Merits a Minimum Grade of C

Other Requirements as Established by your Class Professor or Faculty Advisor (e.g., length (word or page), format, etc.)

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Information found on these pages does not constitute legal advice. Use of these guides does not create an attorney-client relationship.
Capital University students, faculty, staff, alumni, and attorneys looking for reference assistance with legal materials may contact the reference department at reference@law.capital.edu. or call 614-236-6466 during normal reference hours.

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